Recovery specialists are at the disaster recover center in Council Bluffs! The Council Bluffs center is located in the north parking lot of the Charles Lakin Human Services Campus, 815 N. 16th St. It is open 1 to 6 p.m. today (July 8) and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday (July 9 - July 13).
Residents in Pottawattamie County can now apply for the Individual Assistance Program, which provides disaster affected homeowners, renters, and businesses with programs and services to maximize recovery, including assistance with housing, personal property replacement, medical expenses, and legal services.
Find Out How to Apply Fact Sheet on Iowa RecoveryHelp for Survivors with InsuranceHow to Appeal FEMA Decision
As disaster survivors navigate through their recovery, difficulties with insurance or accessing assistance programs can be challenging and difficult to manage.
All disaster survivors impacted by the 2024 Severe Weather events are asked to complete a short survey in order to identify and connect those impacted with programs currently available, identify gaps, and guide the development of additional assistance programs by identifying long-term needs.
Completion of this survey is crucial to accessing assistance that may be available!
You can also call West Central Community Action at 712-322-2621 to access the survey.
There are many nonprofit organizations who are available to assist. Find resources for organization information and the assistance they can provide.
United Way of the Midlands: United Way will be providing $1,000 per household in emergency financial assistance to address losses incurred as a result of the tornadoes. Find more information here.
Pottawattamie County: If you have suffered damage from the storms, there are many nonprofit agencies ready and willing to assist. Here are a list of nonprofit organizations you can contact to get the assistance you need.
American Red Cross: Residents affected by the storms can receive assistance with recovery planning, health services or mental health support by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Habitat for Humanity: Habitat for Humanity Council Bluffs is offering to assist those affected by the storms in Minden and rural Pottawattamie County. Find the vetted contractor listing here. If you need assistance with the contractor process, Habitat is here to educate, explain, or translate the jargon of construction as well as support rebuilding owners feel secure in their dealings with any contractor. Call Habitat for Humanity Council Bluffs for more: 712-328-9476
Iowa Association of Realtors: $1,500.00 relief grants to displaced individuals in Pottawattamie County. Find more about the relief grants here.
As local and state officials explore opportunities for federal funding, it is vital property owners report storm-related damage.
Pottawattamie County: If you have experienced damage from the April and May storms and need to report damage, please complete this form.
Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program (IIAGP): The IIAGP offers grants to families whose household's income is at 200% or less of the federal poverty level. Each qualifying household may receive up to $5,000.00. Find the application here.
The Southwest Iowa Emergency Relief Fund will provide funding to organizations and services in Pottawattamie County that are filling basic human needs, rebuilding communities, and providing direct support to individuals and families.
Nonprofit organizations, city and county governmental organizations, and church groups that are on the frontline of relief efforts and working with the communities affected are encouraged to APPLY HERE.
The city of Minden, Iowa suffered catastrophic damage and loss from the April 26 tornadoes. As a response to the devastation, Minden residents created a fund this week at the Community Foundation to support efforts specifically for their community.
The Minden Iowa Community Fund will support clean-up, rebuilding efforts, and future community betterment projects in Minden, Iowa. Applications for this fund can be found HERE
In the face of unexpected disasters, quick and efficient recovery is crucial for the sustainability and growth of local businesses. Find more information on business disaster recovery here.
SBA Disaster Assistance: SBA (Small Business Administration) provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters. Find out more here.